WTB old xt/xtr 8-speed shifter

[runethechamp]

Just doing some work on an old bike here and wanted to see if anyone has a set of old 8-speed Shimano XT or XTR shifters for sale. Either just the shifters (SL-M739, M950 or 951) or the set with the v-brake levers (ST-M739, M950 or M-951). Probably a long shot but I figured it is worth a try.

[Shen]

I think I might have a set of xtr brake levers. If I do, they are brand new. It will take me some time to find them. I know I have a box of new xtr 8 speed stuff somewhere.

[runethechamp]

Oooh, sweet, I knew I could trust this place to find what I needed. Just keep me updated. I'm not in a big hurry, but the sooner the better.

[Shen]

Found some stuff:
Brake levers only, no shifters; cranks etc. I will put them all up in gear swap. I will hold the levers for you, if you want them.

[runethechamp]

Thanks! Are the brake levers for v-brakes? And how much do you want for them?

Still need some shifters then if anyone has them.

[Shen]

[ame="http://www.tetongravity.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2607931#post2607931"]Gear Swap[/ame]

[runethechamp]

OK, just a question for the people in the know here. Is there a difference between the chainrings in the front between a 8 and a 9 speed MTB? Is the spacing the same and is there a difference in the thickness of the sprockets?

[Roxtar]

OK, just a question for the people in the know here. Is there a difference between the chainrings in the front between a 8 and a 9 speed MTB? Is the spacing the same and is there a difference in the thickness of the sprockets?

No,
Anything on the front using a "9speed" description is marketing BS.

[runethechamp]

No,
Anything on the front using a "9speed" description is marketing BS.

So basically, the 9-speed designation only means something for the chain and cassette...

[Roxtar]

So basically, the 9-speed designation only means something for the chain and cassette...

Anything dealing with the rear shifting.

[runethechamp]

Anything dealing with the rear shifting.

My local bike shop seemed to be of the opinion that a so-called 9-speed rear derailleur would work just fine with the wider 8-speed chain. Is this not the case? Just trying to gather some info here to decide what direction to take with my upgrades.

[Roxtar]

My local bike shop seemed to be of the opinion that a so-called 9-speed rear derailleur would work just fine with the wider 8-speed chain. Is this not the case? Just trying to gather some info here to decide what direction to take with my upgrades.

It should work fine.
The only real difference, as I understand it, beween 8 and 9 speed is the shifter and cassette.
I believe even the chains, though slightly different, will still work. May not be optimal shifting though.

[Natedogg]

Some of the peeps who have worked in shops more recently than I have may chime in here, but I'm pretty darn sure the 9sp chains are narrower than 8sp, and then of course the chainwheels and cogs are narrower. They may work, but your shifting will be sloppy.

That being said, yes, a 9sp rd will work fine with an 8sp drivetrain. And I believe using an 8sp rd with a 9sp drivetrain is fine, as long as the cassette is within the range of the derailleur (ie., no 34t cogs).

I have a bunch of 950 shifters... I could see if I have extra. Long shot, but I'll look.

[runethechamp]

Some of the peeps who have worked in shops more recently than I have may chime in here, but I'm pretty darn sure the 9sp chains are narrower than 8sp, and then of course the chainwheels and cogs are narrower. They may work, but your shifting will be sloppy.

That being said, yes, a 9sp rd will work fine with an 8sp drivetrain. And I believe using an 8sp rd with a 9sp drivetrain is fine, as long as the cassette is within the range of the derailleur (ie., no 34t cogs).

I have a bunch of 950 shifters... I could see if I have extra. Long shot, but I'll look.

Just read a little bit more on the subject, and it seems like the inner dimension of the chain (the opening) is the same for 7/8 and 9 speed chains, and the outer dimension is less for the 9-speed to fit in between the closer spaced cogs on the rear cassette. So that would mean that the chainwheels for all practical purposes are the same for 8 and 9 speed application.

Can't believe how complicated this is. Or maybe it isn't, it's just difficult to find all the information I need.

Let me know about the shifters whenever you get to it. Thanks.

[Shen]

You will be fine. I've had great success with either a SRAM PC 68 or the Sachs PC 91.

[Natedogg]

When in doubt, ask Sheldon.

Sounds like you're right about the chain.

[Natedogg]

Sorry, no extra shift pods lying around.

Check the used section of this post--some 8sp XTs.

[runethechamp]

Blast from the past - anyone have one nicely used brake pair sitting around? xtr preferred.

[mntlion]

I have a set of XTR Vbrakes (one end only, no levers)

whats that worth to you?

[runethechamp]

What's the model and condition? Do they come with bolts, a noodle and a rubber boot?

[runethechamp]

Decent shape, $45-50?

[mntlion]

M951 vintage, one pad has a small crack in it (replaceable cartridge) and have bolts and noodle.

can I email you some pics?

$50 shipped works for me.

[runethechamp]

Yep, email a couple pics to runeiversen at gmail. Thanks!

[mntlion]

pics sent.